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Congress honors science fellows for contributions

Posted Jan. 15, 2004

The House of Representatives passed a resolution this fall honoring the hundreds of American Association for the Advancement of Science Congressional Science and Engineering Fellows who have served in Congress.

The AVMA and American Veterinary Medical Foundation have sponsored 33 veterinarians as part of the AAAS program since 1988. These AVMA/AVMF Congressional Science Fellows have helped to raise awareness about veterinary issues in Washington, D.C.

"This is a truly valuable educational program from the perspective of both members of Congress and the fellows that serve in it," said Ehlers, who is chairman of the House Science Subcommittee on Environment, Technology, and Standards.

"These individuals have contributed not only their scientific expertise, but also a fresh perspective to policy making," the congressman continued.

Representative Edward J. Markey of Massachusetts added, "Bringing technical backgrounds that range from astrophysics to veterinary radiology, AAAS fellows have made important contributions to all areas of government policy."

Over the past 30 years, more than 800 scientists have worked in Congress as AAAS fellows.

Fellows bring their strong technical and scientific skills to the policy-making process. Throughout the year, fellows support the congressional offices in which they work by writing speeches and press releases, developing legislation, and meeting with constituents and outside groups.

Past AVMA/AVMF Congressional Science Fellows include Dr. Karen M. Becker, now a senior health adviser with the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Public Health, and Drs. Michael Chaddock and Ray Stock, director and assistant director of the AVMA Governmental Relations Division.